While many characters in Genshin Impact appear in human forms and live among human societies, the absolute oldest beings in Teyvat are typically not purely human. The oldest character known in Genshin Impact, frequently interacting in a human form, is Zhongli.
Zhongli, the Geo Archon also known as Rex Lapis, possesses an immense age, reportedly over 6,000 years old. His longevity far surpasses that of typical human characters in the game. He is a divine being, capable of manifesting in various forms, with his most common appearance being a human male.
Understanding Character Longevity in Genshin Impact
Genshin Impact features a diverse cast of characters, whose lifespans vary greatly depending on their race, lineage, and divine connection. The characters known for their extreme ages are often Archons, Adepti, or other mystical beings who transcend typical human lifespans.
Here's a breakdown of the oldest known characters:
| Rank | Character | Race/Nature | Estimated Age | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Zhongli | Geo Archon | 6,000+ years | Formerly Rex Lapis, a dragon and one of The Seven Archons. |
| 2 | Xianyun | Adeptus | 3,700+ years | Also known as Cloud Retainer, an adeptus often appearing in a crane form. |
| 3 | Ganyu | Half-Qilin Adeptus | 3,700+ years | A half-human, half-Qilin adeptus who served Rex Lapis. |
These figures highlight that the oldest beings are deeply tied to the foundational lore of Teyvat, often being part of ancient conflicts and the world's creation. While they interact significantly with humans and in human-like forms, their true nature is distinct.
The Nuance of "Human Character"
The term "human character" in Genshin Impact can be nuanced. While many characters are unequivocally human (e.g., Jean, Diluc, Klee), the oldest characters, such as Zhongli, Xianyun, and Ganyu, are beings of immense power and longevity whose true forms are non-human. Zhongli and Ganyu notably spend much of their time living and working among humans in Liyue Harbor, contributing to their perception as "human characters" by many players and in-game inhabitants. Klee, on the other hand, is noted as one of the youngest characters, being at least three years old, but her race grants her longevity, suggesting she may appear younger than her actual biological development might imply.
